The network effect: Businesses are built by people

The network effect: Businesses are built by people

If you can stay motivated for long enough, your success will lead to growth – and your team will be a big part of that. From the moment Sally started out on the path to world-class success, she was careful to surround herself with the right team. From the right nutritionist to the right sports psychologist and mentor, all of her team brought their own specialist skills. It’s the same in business: the sales director shouldn’t be troubled with accounts, and the web designer doesn’t have to close sales, even if they coincidentally have the right skills.

The first step here is to monitor whether your team shares your business goals. “The first thing I did to try to build that team was to meet them, to chat to them. It’s important, you often go on first impressions and go by your gut instinct,” Sally says. Often, someone can be perfect on paper but working together every day could raise problems.

Sally acknowledges that when you’re starting out, it is a daunting step to put your trust in strangers – whether in sport or business. “Just remember to accept the help rather than questioning it and putting up negative barriers,” she says. Her openness, Sally believes, was key to attracting the help that got her to the next stage.

Patience in building your team is integral. Sally says, “I often watch athletes take on new coaches, only to replace them when they don’t win. What are they supposed to learn?” You shouldn’t be ruthless in hiring and firing if the fit isn’t right; even when it works, instant rapport is rare and should always be worked at.Another tip to remember is to look for skills, knowledge and experience, but also compatibility. “My team was instrumental in saying ‘come on, let’s do this together, you’re capable’!” Sally says. “Communication both ways is vital too – good mentors have time for people, listen to them and don’t treat them the same.”

Sally’s top tip for using your network to your advantage: Build a strong team around you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and surround yourself with people who are good at what they do – they will help you to excel.